Express Gratitude

Express gratitude this month. Gratitude is one of the most powerful states of mind one can retain. However, it is a challenging trait to maintain. When embodied, an individual experiences a sense of contentment and appreciation. In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul voices the work he put into developing a grateful spirit. Such a state positioned him to succeed when practicing patience and endurance.

An old saying I grew up on is, “You never know what you have until you have lost it.” This saying has stuck with me for years. Everyone must appreciate what they have because life does not promise it will last forever. In the past few years, I have been growing in my understanding of the essence of gratitude. Gratitude teaches us to appreciate simplicity. It is natural for me to worry about the minute details of life that are out of my control rather than concerning myself with what God already has under control. God’s daily request for me is that I choose to trust and obey Him.

Learning to appreciate what you have is vital before you lose it. On the day before Easter, my family and I spent the day together at the Christiana Mall. Our time of laughter did not last very long when an active shooter entered the food court. Several shots were fired, and friends and families hit the floor and dove for cover. Fear flooded the room. Thankfully only a few were injured, and the gunman was restrained by security. My family and I were feet away from the shooter but remained safe. I am sharing this because that day God reminded me of what really matters. It was His grace and provision that protected us. I was reminded of my responsibility to trust and obey Him.
 

Who Are You Grateful For?

 
I am grateful for God, how God has grown me over the years, and my loved ones. This month Mother’s Day is celebrated. I want to specifically share how grateful I am for every mother who does the best she can in the role God has given her. My Mother is worth celebrating because she is selfless and intentional and has always taught her children and others what it means to revere God.

To be a mother is no easy task. Such a calling requires discipline and focus. A loving mother is:

Show Your Appreciation

 
“Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: ‘There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!’ Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.” (Proverbs 31:28-31)

For every woman that reads this and is a mother I want you to know that I am grateful for you. I pray that you know that you are seen and appreciated by God and many others who recognize the value you bring. The long days, sleepless nights, and energy you exert that may go unnoticed is honorable. You are worth appreciating, and I thank you for it.